Lovell, right, was relieved of his management duties before the penultimate game of the season against Charlton.

It was a shock move and Mr Scally has so far said very little about the events surrounding Lovell’s departure.

Gillingham chairman Paul Scally Picture: Ady Kerry

He did, however, speak briefly about the departing manager at the awards’ evening on Sunday, saying: “Steve is a very good friend of ours, a very good friend of mine.

“He was coming (to the event) but unfortunately had to pull out at the last moment. I would have loved to have seen him because I think he deserved to take in the accolade from the floor. He has worked ever so hard for the last 18 months.

“He won’t be our manager next season going forward, but he will always be a person who is much loved and much welcomed here at the stadium and he deserves a big round of applause.”

Former Gillingham manager Steve Lovell Picture: Ady Kerry

The Gills have yet to indicate when a new manager will be in place.

Paul Raynor is the current favourite. He is the long-term assistant to Steve Evans, who was initially thought to be taking over.

Aside from that pair, there are no other clear favourites.

Mark Patterson has been in caretaker charge but he has ruled himself out.